Golf swing trainer and development

ABSTRACT

The application is directed to an apparatus, system and method for developing muscle memory in relation to training and/or reprogramming a person&#39;s golf swing and for providing a user with instant feedback as to the performance of an undesired golf swing.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 62/110,391, filed on Jan. 30, 2015.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

FIELD OF THE APPLICATION

The application relates generally to golf swing development.

BACKGROUND OF THE APPLICATION

To date, various training devices have been developed in the field ofathletics aimed at teaching and improving golf swing mechanics.Unfortunately, any one training device does not benefit those coaches,instructors and athletes who do not agree with the swing mechanicsand/or philosophy on which that particular training device is devised.What one individual may consider as “proper mechanics,” “proper swingtechnique,” “proper swinging form,” “proper swing path,” etc., may beconsidered improper by someone else. For example, various golf swinginstructors have differing philosophies regarding proper swing path,proper balance, proper backswing, proper hip rotation, proper grip,proper approach, proper follow through and the proper overallsynchronization of the human body during the swinging motion necessaryto maximize an athlete's ability to strike a golf ball as desired. Thus,known training devices have been developed based on a particularinventor's personal concept of “proper” body mechanics, swing path, etc.

A need exists for a training technique that addresses Applicant's ownindividual philosophy regarding addressing proper swinging mechanics forgolfers and the development thereof.

SUMMARY OF THE APPLICATION

The application is directed to a golf swing training apparatuscomprising a first upright planar barrier and a second upright planarbarrier set apart from the first upright planar barrier providing atraining area there between for an individual to be located and swing agolf club; and the first upright planar barrier and the second uprightplanar barrier each having surface areas effective to intercept aswinging golf club along the entire arc of an individual golf swing whena golf club swung by the individual travels in space along one or moreundesired points on X, Y and Z axes within the training area.

The application is also directed to a golf swing training apparatuscomprising a first upright barrier and a second upright barrier definedby planes substantially parallel to a coronal plane of an individualusing the apparatus, wherein the second vertical barrier is set apartfrom the first vertical barrier providing a training area there betweenfor an individual to be positioned when swinging a golf club; with theindividual having a desired golf swing arc directed between out in frontand back behind the individual's coronal plane unhindered by the firstand second upright barriers, the first and second upright barriers beingoperationally configured to intercept a golf club swung along anundesired golf swing arc at one or more points out in front and behindthe coronal plane of the individual performing the golf swing.

The application is also directed to a golf swing practice methodincluding (1) providing a golf swing training apparatus comprising (a) afirst vertical barrier having a planar surface; (b) a second verticalbarrier having a planar surface set apart from the first verticalbarrier; and (c) a base for supporting the first and second verticalbarriers in upright positions, the first and second vertical barriersand the base providing a defined training area for an individual to belocated to swing a golf club; and (2) with an individual positioned inthe training area and oriented so that the planar surfaces of the firstand second vertical barriers are parallel with a coronal plane of theindividual, the individual swinging a golf club according to his/hernatural golf swing mechanics, whereby contact of the golf club witheither of the first and second vertical barriers when performing thegolf swing informs the individual of an undesired swing path.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus.

FIG. 3 is a side perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus.

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus.

FIG. 5 is a top view of a simplified embodiment of the apparatus.

FIG. 6 is a top view of a simplified embodiment of the apparatus.

FIG. 7 is a front view of a simplified embodiment of the apparatus.

FIG. 8 is a front view of a simplified embodiment of the apparatus.

FIG. 9 is a front view of a simplified embodiment of the apparatus.

FIG. 10A is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus.

FIG. 10B is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus.

FIG. 11A is a simplified side view illustrating an exemplary circularpattern or arc of a golf swing.

FIG. 11B is a simplified top view illustrating an exemplary circularpattern or arc of a golf swing.

FIG. 11C is a simplified front perspective view illustrating anexemplary swing plane during the backswing of the golf swing.

FIG. 11D is a simplified front perspective view illustrating anexemplary swing plane during the downswing of the golf swing.

FIG. 11E a simplified front perspective view illustrating an exemplaryswing plane during the follow through of the golf swing.

FIG. 11F is a simplified front side view illustrating the arc of a golfswing.

FIG. 11G is a simplified rear side view illustrating the arc of a golfswing.

FIG. 11H is a simplified view of a first vertical barrier.

FIG. 11I is a simplified view of a second vertical barrier.

FIG. 12 is a simplified back view of a golfer at an address position.

FIG. 13A is a simplified back view illustrating a backswing of astandard slot swing.

FIG. 13B is a simplified back view illustrating a downswing of astandard slot swing.

FIG. 14A is a simplified back view illustrating a backswing of a singleplane slot swing.

FIG. 14B is a simplified back view illustrating a downswing of a singleplane slot swing.

FIG. 15A is a simplified back view illustrating a backswing of a reverseslot swing.

FIG. 15B is a simplified back view illustrating a downswing of a reverseslot swing.

FIG. 16 is a simplified back view illustration depicting various swingplanes according to the type of golf club being swung or according tothe length of the golf club being swung.

FIG. 17 is a simplified back view illustrating the take away portion ofa backswing.

FIG. 18A is a simplified back view illustrating the take away portion ofa backswing.

FIG. 18B is a simplified back view illustrating the take away portion ofa backswing.

FIG. 19 is a simplified top view depicting various club head swing pathsthat may be performed during the downswing portion of a golf swing.

FIG. 20 is a simplified back view illustrating a golfer using anembodiment of the trainer with the golfer at an address position.

FIG. 21 is a simplified back view illustrating a golfer using anembodiment of the trainer with the golfer at the top of the backswing.

FIG. 22 is a simplified back view illustrating a golfer using anembodiment of the trainer with the golfer performing the downswing.

FIG. 23 is a simplified back view illustrating a golfer using anembodiment of the trainer with the golfer in a follow through position.

FIG. 24 is a simplified back view illustrating a golfer using anembodiment of the trainer with the golfer in a finish position of thefollow through.

FIG. 25 is a simplified back perspective view showing the club head pathof an in-to-in golf swing.

FIG. 26 is a simplified back perspective view showing the club head pathof an out-to-in golf swing.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before describing the invention in detail, it is to be understood thatthe present apparatus, system and method are not limited to particularembodiments. It is also to be understood that the terminology usedherein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, andis not intended to be limiting. As used in this specification and theappended claims, the phrase “muscle memory” refers to the process bywhich an individual's neuromuscular system memorizes motor skills, suchas those motor skills related to Applicant's own philosophy regardingproper golf swing mechanics. For simplicity, the golf swing will bedescribed herein with reference to a right handed golfer. Theabbreviation “PW” stands for pitching wedge and the abbreviation “SW”stands for sand wedge as understood by the skilled artisan.

It has been discovered that persons may practice the golf swing andreceive instant feedback as to an undesired golf swing without the aidof an observer and without having to define the golf swing according toa particular swing path. Thus, in one aspect the application provides anapparatus, system and method for developing muscle memory in relation todeveloping a person's golf swing. In another aspect, the applicationprovides an apparatus, system and method for developing muscle memory inrelation to reprogramming a person's golf swing. The apparatus may be oflight weight construction allowing for portability of the apparatus. Assuch, the apparatus may be provided with one or more handles, grips,shoulder straps, and combinations thereof, allowing one or moreindividuals to hold and carry the apparatus.

In another aspect, the application provides an apparatus, system andmethod for developing or practicing the golf swing for both right handedgolfers and left handed golfers.

In another aspect, the application provides an apparatus and system fordeveloping or practicing the golf swing that is of light weight durableconstruction for ease of transport by one or more persons. The apparatusand system of this application may also include one or more wheels fortransport purposes.

In another aspect, the application provides an apparatus and system fordeveloping or practicing the golf swing that is operationally configuredto provide instant feedback as to undesired body motion and/or anundesired path of the golf club head and/or shaft when performing thegolf swing.

In another aspect, the application provides an apparatus and system fordeveloping or practicing the golf swing operationally configured for usein a home, building or other area such as a standard size garage of ahome.

In another aspect, the application provides an apparatus for developingor practicing the golf swing that may be adapted for use by differentsize individuals.

In another aspect, the application provides a system for developing orpracticing the golf swing that may be adapted for use by different sizeindividuals.

In another aspect, the application provides an apparatus and system fordeveloping or practicing the golf swing including a hitting surface forstriking golf balls with a golf club, wherein the hitting surfacematerials or hitting surface configuration may be altered as desired toprovide varying hitting surfaces for practicing the golf swing accordingto various types of clubs, e.g., woods and irons, as these terms areunderstood by the skilled artisan in the game of golf.

With reference now to the simplified illustration of FIG. 1, in a firstembodiment the training apparatus 10 (or “trainer”) may include a firstvertical barrier 100 and a second vertical barrier 200 set apart fromthe first vertical barrier 100 providing a training area 300 therebetween for an individual to stand and swing a golf club. As FIG. 1shows, the trainer 10 may include a one piece construction including asubstantially horizontal planar training area platform 301 disposedbetween the first and second vertical barriers 100, 200, which extendout from the platform 301 vertically at about ninety (90.0) degreesrelative to the surface of the platform 301. The first and/or the secondvertical barrier 100, 200 may also extend out from the platform 301 atangles other than ninety degrees as desired.

In another embodiment, the first and second vertical barriers 100, 200may be releasably secured to the training area platform 301, e.g., malemembers of the barriers 100, 200 may be (1) held in place via femalemembers of the training area platform 301, or vice versa, (2) held inplace via bolts, and combinations thereof. In another embodiment, thefirst and second vertical barriers 100, 200 may be secured to aperimeter framework of the training area 300. The first and secondvertical barriers 100, 200 may also include one or more base members,braces, legs, and combinations thereof for holding or maintaining thefirst and second vertical barriers 100, 200 in upright positions duringtrainer 10 usage along opposing sides of the training area platform 301.In still another embodiment including a trainer 10 having a one-piececonstruction, the first vertical barrier 100 and/or the second verticalbarrier 200 may include a plurality of hinged, perforated, or foldablesections allowing one or more sections to be folded down vertically ontoother lower sections as desired. As an example, one suitable foldablevertical barrier 100/200 may be foldable along a perforated seamsrunning horizontally along the barrier 100/200.

In another embodiment as shown in FIG. 2, the trainer 10 may be providedas an assembly of component parts. For example, the trainer 10 mayinclude frame members 12 and joints 14 or couplings there betweenoperationally configured to cooperatively form the first and secondvertical barriers 100, 200 and training area 300. In one embodiment, theframe members 12 may include tubular sections. In another embodiment,the frame members 12 may include multi-sided sections. The joints 14 aresuitably operationally configured to receive the frame members 12 inreleasable or permanent attachment thereto as desired.

As shown in FIG. 2, an embodiment of the trainer 10 may include at leastfour base frame members 12A-12D, at least four rising frame members12E-12H and at least two longitudinal frame members 12I-12J. In anotherembodiment, at least one frame member 12 may comprise a plurality ofsmaller sectional members for forming a whole frame member for trainer10 construction. In this particular embodiment, the trainer 10 may alsoinclude four ninety degree elbow joints 14A and four three-way joints14B. Straight joints or couplings may be used to connect a plurality ofsmaller sectional members as described above.

As the trainer 10 of FIG. 1 illustrates, the first and second verticalbarriers 100, 200 may be of solid construction. Likewise, the trainingarea 300 may including a ball striking surface of solid construction orinclude a training area platform 301 of solid construction effective forpersons to stand atop the surface within the training area 300 forpurposes of performing the golf swing. Without limiting the trainingarea 300 or training area platform 301 to a particular material ofconstruction, suitable materials may include non-destructive golf cluband/or contact surface materials providing non-destructive surfacecontact of a golf club head and/or surface when the training areaplatform 301 is struck by the head of a golf club. Suitablenon-destructive ball striking surfaces of the training area 300 mayinclude, but are not necessarily limited to wood surfaces, carpetedsurfaces, rubber surfaces, artificial grass surfaces, plastic surfaces,surfaces constructed from one or more composite materials, andcombinations thereof. Likewise, the training area 300 may include a gamecondition ball striking surface for example, a natural grass surface ofa desired kind, height and thickness, a sand surface, a dirt surface,and combinations thereof. In one particular embodiment, the ballstriking surface of the training area 300 may include a synthetic turfsurface with a rubber pad backing as understood by persons of ordinaryskill in the art of golf hitting mats and the like. In an embodimentincluding a solid training area platform 301, the training area 300 mayinclude one or more drains or through holes effective for removing waterfrom the surface of the training area platform 301. In an embodimentwherein the training area platform 301 includes a natural grass ballstriking surface, the training area platform 301 may include one or morethrough holes for water drainage. In an embodiment, where the ballstriking surface includes sand, the ends of the training area 300 mayinclude raised side walls for forming a sand enclosure with the firstand second vertical barriers 100, 200. In the alternative, the entireperimeter of the training area 300 may include side walls. In oneparticular embodiment, the ball striking surface of the training area300 may be interchangeable allowing for one or more types of ballstriking surfaces for a given trainer 10. For example, in an embodimentwherein the training area platform 301 includes a wood surface, acarpeted surface, a rubber surface, an artificial grass surface, aplastic surface, or a composite surface, a separate sand box or the likemay be placed atop the training area platform 301 when a user desires topractice sand type golf shots and there after removed as desired.

As depicted in FIG. 2, the first and second vertical barriers 100, 200may include see through barrier material disposed across the barriers100, 200 such as rope netting, e.g., nylon netting, wire netting,plastic mesh netting, or other see through material attachable to theframe members 12. In another embodiment, the first and second verticalbarriers 100, 200 may include solid barriers constructed from one ormore transparent materials, one or more opaque materials, andcombinations thereof. In another embodiment, the first and secondvertical barriers 100, 200 may include a combination of solid barriersand see through material as desired. In addition, the training area 300may employ a removable ball striking surface platform type structure. Inthe alternative, the trainer 10 may be set atop a particular targetsurface wherein the target surface itself serves as a ball strikingsurface of the training area 300, e.g., a floor, a sports field, asports court, a driveway, a grass field, a lawn, a driving rangesurface, and a golf course surface, e.g., grass, sand, dirt, mudsurfaces.

With further reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the trainer 10 may include anopen or unencumbered space between the upper portions of the first andsecond vertical barriers 100, 200. In another embodiment as illustratedin FIG. 3, the trainer 10 may include a cross brace 16 of one or moresections interconnecting the first and second vertical barriers 100, 200at or near the back side 20 of the trainer 10. In such embodiment,three-way joints 14B may be used to interconnect the cross brace 16.Similar as the embodiment of FIG. 2, the base of the trainer 10 mayinclude frame members 12A and 12C at the front and back ends of thetraining area 300. In another embodiment, the trainer 10 may be devoidof either of frame members 12A or 12C.

In embodiments such as those depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, the framemembers 12 may be operationally configured to receive extension membersas understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art of pipe fittingand the like, that are releasably connectable to the frame members 12 asdesired for elongating and/or increasing the height and/or width and/orlength of the trainer 10. In another embodiment, the trainer 10 mayinclude telescopic frame members 12 operationally configured to elongateand/or increase the height and/or width and/or length of the trainer 10.In one embodiment, mating telescopic frame members 12 may be provided asa spring pin assembly with linear apertures disposed along oneparticular frame member 12 and a spring loaded pin on a mating framemember 12 for interlocking the frame members 12 and setting thetelescoping frame members 12 in a fixed position when the spring pinextends through an aperture of the corresponding frame member 12. Inanother embodiment, telescoping frame members 12 may includecorresponding linear apertures whereby a removable type set pin may bepassed through aligned apertures of the frame members 12 in a mannereffective to hold the frame members 12 in a fixed position. In stillanother embodiment, the trainer 10 may be provided with a plurality ofinterchangeable frame members 12 of various lengths for adjusting thedistance between the first and second vertical barriers 100, 200. Asdescribed in detail below, the distance between the first and secondvertical barriers 100, 200 may vary according to the size of theindividual using the trainer 10, the individual's type of swing, thetype of club or the length of the golf club, i.e., length of the clubshaft, being swung when using the trainer 10.

It is also contemplated that the trainer 10 may include one or morespike type members operationally configured to penetrate the ground tosecure the trainer 10 in a fixed position during use. In a simplifiedexample, a trainer 10 as shown in FIG. 2 may include one or more spikemembers along the bottom side of one or more frame members 12 wherebythe trainer 10 may be fixed to a ball striking surface, e.g., a tee boxor a sand trap at a driving range or golf course, whereby a person maymake use of the trainer 10 fixed to the surface.

Turning to FIG. 4, the trainer 10 may also comprise independent firstand second vertical barriers 100, 200, each having one or more base legmembers 25 for supporting the vertical barriers 100, 200 in uprightpositions. As shown, a golf hitting mat 30 may be set in the trainingarea 300 between the vertical barriers 100, 200 providing a ballstriking surface for a person to stand on when practicing the golfswing. Because the first and second vertical barriers 100, 200 areseparate free standing members, the size of the training area 300 therebetween may be set as desired. In still another embodiment, a leg member25 of a barrier may include one or more wheels for rolling the barrieracross a surface. In this embodiment, one or both of the first andsecond vertical barriers 100, 200 may be adjustable as desired.

In one embodiment, a tarp or netting device may be used in conjunctionwith the trainer 10 by situating the tarp or netting device at the frontside 21 of the trainer 10 for the purpose of catching and retaining golfballs being hit out from the training area 300. As such, a tarp ornetting device may be attached to the front side 21 of the trainer 10 asdesired. The trainer 10 may also include one or more fasteners, hooks,stands, trays, pouches, bags, containers, magnets, or other holders forsecuring or holding various types of golf accessories to the trainer 10.Exemplary accessories include, but are not necessarily limited totowels, golf club cleaning brushes, golf shoe cleaning brushes, teeholders, golf ball containers, golf glove holders, beverage holders,wallet, keys, cell phones, smart phones, electronic tablet devices,firearms, and combinations thereof. It is also contemplated that thetrainer 10 may include a seating apparatus attached thereto as desired.For example, one of the vertical barriers 100, 200 may be operationallyconfigured to include one or more flip up seats similar as those foundin vehicles, e.g., trucks/vans. The trainer 10 may also be provided witha radio and/or television as desired including a power source and outletfor powering a radio and/or television and/or other electronic device.It is further contemplated that the trainer 10 may include a videoand/or still camera for imaging a person when using the trainer 10. Insuch embodiment, a monitor or a television in communication with thecamera may be used to provide a playback type review of an individual'sgolf swing.

Although the trainer 10 may be built to scale, a suitable trainer 10includes a second vertical barrier 200 having a height great enough tointercept a golf club during a person's (1) backswing if and when thebackswing is performed incorrectly as described herein, e.g., thebackswing is performed along one or more swing planes too flat for theparticular person using the trainer 10, and (2) follow through if aperson does not finish with his/her hands high enough relative tohis/her own shoulders as described herein. Generally, a second verticalbarrier 200 having a height at about a user's hips is too short tointercept a golf club at or near the top of the backswing. Thus, formost individuals a suitable second vertical barrier 200 has a minimumheight at least about equal to the user's waistline and a maximum heightabout equal to the height of the individual using the trainer 10.Although the second vertical barrier 200 is not limited to a particularmaximum height, a suitable height may be determined according to trainer10 materials cost, transport, storage, location of use, and combinationsthereof. As such, the second vertical barrier 200 may be operationallyadjustable in height as desired, e.g., for use by both adults andchildren. As a simplified example, the second vertical barrier 200 maybe provided as an adjustable member with a minimum height of about 0.91meters (about 3.0 feet) and a maximum height of about 2.13 meters (about7.0 feet). In another embodiment, the second vertical barrier 200 mayinclude a fixed height well above the minimum height for the tallestperson anticipated to use the trainer 10. As a simplified example,seeing that the average adult male height in the United States ofAmerica at the time of this application is about 1.77 meters (about 69.5inches, i.e., five feet nine and one half inches)—the second verticalbarrier 200 may be provided at a fixed height of about 2.44 meters(about 8.0 feet).

Suitably, the first vertical barrier 100 has a height effective tointercept a golf club during the take away of the backswing and/orduring the downswing as such terms are understood by persons of ordinaryskill in golf swing mechanics if the golf club is swung outside thetarget line 26 away from the user's body. Thus, for most individuals asuitable first vertical barrier 100 has a minimum height about equal tothe midpoint of the user's tibia bone and a maximum height about equalto the height of the individual using the trainer 10. For ease of use,the trainer 10 may be provided with first and second vertical barriers100, 200 about equal in height as shown in FIGS. 1-4. Such aconfiguration is suitable for use by both right handed swingers and lefthanded golf club swingers. Since different size persons may make use ofa trainer 10, the distance between the first and second verticalbarriers 100, 200 may vary accordingly. As stated above, the trainer 10may be built to scale 10. In an embodiment constructed for use by anaverage adult male, a suitable maximum distance between the first andsecond vertical barriers 100, 200 may be up to about 1.52 meters (about60.0 inches) and a suitable minimum distance between the first andsecond vertical barriers 100, 200 may be about 1.02 meters (about 40.0inches). In such embodiment, the first and second vertical barriers 100,200 may also include a length ranging from about 1.23 meters (about 4.0feet) to about 2.44 meters (about 8.0 feet) and a height ranging fromabout 1.23 meters (about 4.0 feet) to about 1.83 meters (about 6.0feet).

As depicted in FIGS. 1-4, the first and second vertical barriers 100,200 may be aligned in a substantially parallel orientation. For one ormore particular persons and/or practice sessions, the first and secondvertical barriers 100, 200 may be provided or set in non-parallelalignment as shown in the simplified illustrations of FIGS. 5 and 6.With further reference to FIGS. 1-4, the first and second verticalbarriers 100, 200 may form right angles with the hitting surface of thetraining area 300. In other embodiments, the first and second verticalbarriers 100, 200 may form an angle less than or greater than 90.0degrees for one or more particular persons and/or practice session—seefor example the simplified embodiments of a trainer 10 as shown in FIGS.7-9.

In another embodiment as shown in FIG. 10A, the trainer 10 may include acage like configuration including a three sided rectangular shaped topsection 40 including a first portion defined by elements 41 and 42 andan adjustable coupling member 43 operationally configured to connectelements 41 and 42. The top section 40 further includes a second portiondefined by elements 44 and 45 and an adjustable T-shaped coupling 46operationally configured to interconnect elements 44 and 45. The topsection 40 also includes a third portion defined by elements 47 and 48and an adjustable T-shaped coupling 49 operationally configured tointerconnect elements 47 and 48.

The top section 40 further includes first and second three-way joints 50and 51 defining the top corners of the trainer 10. The first joint 50includes (1) a first end 52 operationally configured to receive element41 in attachment thereto, (2) a second end 53 oriented at a right angleto first end 52 and operationally configured to receive element 44 inattachment thereto and (3) a third end 54 oriented at a right angle tothe first and second ends 52, 53. Likewise, the second joint 51 includes(1) a first end 55 operationally configured to receive element 42 inattachment thereto, (2) a second end 56 oriented at a right angle tofirst end 55 and operationally configured to receive element 47 inattachment thereto and (3) a third end 57 oriented at a right angle tothe first and second ends 55, 56.

Adjustable T-shaped coupling 46 suitably couples adjacent elements 44and 45 via a first end 58 and a second end 59 and has a third end 60oriented at a right angle to the first and second ends 58, 59. First andsecond ends 58 and 59 include co-linear female type mating surfaces.Likewise, adjustable T-shaped coupling 49 suitably couples adjacentelements 47 and 48 via a first end 61 and a second end 62 and has athird end 63 oriented at a right angle to the first and second ends 61,62. First and second ends 61 and 62 include co-linear female type matingsurfaces.

The trainer 10 further includes a bottom section 64 including a firstportion defined by elements 65 and 66 and an adjustable coupling 67operationally configured to connect elements 65 and 66. The bottomsection 64 also includes a second portion defined by elements 68 and 69and an adjustable T-shaped coupling 70 operationally configured toconnect elements 68 and 69. The bottom section 64 further includes athird portion defined by elements 71 and 72 and an adjustable T-shapedcoupling 73 operationally configured to connect elements 71 and 72.

The bottom section 64 also includes first and second three-way joints 74and 75 defining bottom corners of the trainer 10. The first joint 74includes (1) a first end 76 operationally configured to receive element65 in attachment thereto, (2) a second end 77 oriented at a right angleto first end 76 and operationally configured to receive element 68 inattachment thereto and (3) a third end 78 oriented at a right angle tothe first and second ends 76, 77. Likewise, the second joint 75 includes(1) a first end 79 operationally configured to receive element 66 inattachment thereto, (2) a second end 80 oriented at a right angle tofirst end 79 and operationally configured to receive element 71 inattachment thereto and (3) a third end 81 oriented at a right angle tothe first and second ends 79, 80. As shown, the joints 50 and 74 aremated to opposing ends of first upright member 82 and the joints 51 and75 are mated to opposing ends of second upright member 83.

Adjustable T-shaped coupling 70 suitably couples adjacent elements 68and 69 via a first end 84 and a second end 85 and has a third end 86oriented at a right angle to the first and second ends 84, 85. First andsecond ends 84 and 85 include co-linear female type mating surfaces.Likewise, adjustable T-shaped coupling 73 suitably couples adjacentelements 71 and 72 via a first end 87 and a second end 88 and has athird end 89 oriented at a right angle to the first and second ends 87,88. First and second ends 87 and 88 include co-linear female type matingsurfaces. As shown, the T-shaped couplings 46 and 70 are mated toopposing ends of third upright member 90 at third ends 60 and 86 and theT-shaped couplings 49 and 73 are mated to opposing ends of fourthupright member 91 at third ends 63 and 89.

The open end of the trainer 10 is defined by a first L-shaped coupling92 operationally configured to receive element 45 in attachment theretoat a first end 93 of the coupling 92 and a second L-shaped coupling 94operationally configured to receive element 48 in attachment thereto ata first end 95 of the coupling 94. The trainer 10 includes a three-wayjoint 96 including (1) a first end 97 operationally configured toreceive element 69 in attachment thereto, (2) a second end 98 orientedat a right angle to first end 52 and (3) a third end 99 oriented at aright angle to the first and second ends 97, 98. The trainer 10 alsoincludes a three-way joint 100 including (1) a first end 101operationally configured to receive element 72 in attachment thereto,(2) a second end 102 oriented at a right angle to first end 101 and (3)a third end 103 oriented at a right angle to the first and second ends101, 102. As shown, the trainer 10 includes (1) a fifth upright member104 connected to coupling 92 at a second end 105 and connected tocoupling 96 at third end 99 of joint 96 and (2) a sixth upright member106 connected to coupling 94 at a second end 107 and connected tocoupling 100 at a third end 103. The trainer 10 may also include aportion defined by elements 108 and 109 and an adjustable couplingmember 110 operationally configured to connect elements 108 and 109. Asshown, element 108 may be mated with coupling 96 at second end 98 andelement 109 may be mated with coupling 100 at second end 102.Collectively, elements 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 71, 72, 108, 109 and 110 forma rectangular bottom perimeter of the trainer 10. In addition, thevarious elements and/or couplings described may be changed as desired toadjust the overall size configuration of the trainer 10. Also, the totalnumber of the one or more elements mated within the couplings may beadjusted allowing the overall size configuration of the trainer 10 to bealtered as desired. In one embodiment, the male type ends of theelements may simply be inserted in the female members of the couplings.In another embodiment, the elements and couplings may include threadedconnections. Other collar type members may be employed between theelements and couplings as desired.

Turning to FIG. 10B, in another particular embodiment the trainer 10 mayinclude twenty upright or vertical members 130, sixteen horizontalmembers 133 and various couplings there between interconnecting themembers 130, 133, e.g., cylindrical joints 135 (ten total), T-shapedcouplings 136 (twelve total), elbow joints 137 (four total) andthree-way joints 138 (four total)—each of these individual memberscollectively providing the structural framework for the first and secondvertical barriers 100, 200. As shown, the trainer 10 also includes basemembers 139 and 140 connected to various three-way joints 138 forforming a rectangular base as shown and defining the distance betweenthe first and second vertical barriers 100, 200 and thus, defining thesize of the training area 300. Although this particular embodiment maybe built to scale, a suitable height of the first and second verticalbarriers 100, 200 is about 1.52 meters (60.0 inches); a suitable lengthof the first and second vertical barriers 100, 200 is about 2.13 meters(84.0 inches); and a suitable distance between the first and secondvertical barriers 100, 200 is about 1.10 meters (42.0 inches). Asunderstood by the skilled artisan, additional members and couplings maybe added to enlarge the trainer 10 beyond the dimensions mentioned aboveand likewise, members and couplings may be removed to reduce the size ofthe trainer 10. In addition, a tarp or netting device may be drapedover, or otherwise suspended about, the first and second verticalbarriers 100, 200 to prevent a hit ball from traveling through the emptyspaces between the various members of the trainer 10, e.g., where a ballis mishit off the toe of the golf club head.

Without limiting the invention, the trainer 10 is suitably constructedfrom one or more materials durable enough to maintain its basic shapeduring use. In particular, the trainer 10 may be constructed of one ormore materials including but not necessarily limited to those materialsresistant to chipping, cracking, excessive bending and reshaping as aresult of ozone, weathering, heat, moisture, other outside mechanicaland chemical influences, as well as various impacts and other loadsplaced on the trainer 10. Likewise, the trainer 10 may comprise anycolor or combination of colors, or in the alternative, the trainer 10may be constructed from a transparent or translucent material(s).

Suitable materials of frame member 12 construction include, but are notnecessarily limited to metals, plastics, rubbers, woods, bamboo,fiberglass, plexiglass, filled composite materials, and combinationsthereof. Suitable plastics include, but are not necessarily limited tovinyl polymers and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Suitably metals include,but are not necessarily limited to aluminum, copper, steel, brass, andcombinations thereof. In one suitable embodiment, the trainer 10 may becomprised of PVC. In another suitable embodiment, the trainer 10 may becomprised of aluminum.

As understood by the skilled artisan, the golf swing is ideallyperformed along a desired swing path including (1) one or more swingplanes and (2) a circular pattern or arc. The swing path affects thedirection a golf ball travels when hit and the trajectory of the golfshot. As understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art, the swingplane is an imaginary flat type surface used to describe the path andangle on which a club travels during a swing. Suitably, a person's golfswing consists of a backswing plane and a downswing plane whereby thegolf club head follows a circular pattern or arc 25 (see FIGS. 11A and11B) (1) from a first front position (“I”) relative to the coronal plane23 of the person 5 using the trainer 10 (2) to a second rear position(“II”) relative to the coronal plane 23 of the person 5 (3) to a thirdfront position (“I”) during the downswing. The swing plane is literallythe tilt of the inclined plane made by the golf club's shaft as ittravels along the circular pattern or arc 25 (see exemplary swing plane35 in FIGS. 11C-11E).

The swing plane 35 or tilt can be (1) substantially upright drawingclose to parallel with the coronal plane 23 of the individual using thetrainer 10, (2) flatter like a baseball swing or (3) somewhere inbetween like swing plane 35 shown in FIGS. 11C-11E. The plane of a golfswing can also tilt left or right of a target line 26 or directly alongthe target line 26. Thus, the present trainer 10 is operationallyconfigured to assist a person 5 with developing a repeatable golf swingor identical multiple swings along a particular swing path, i.e., thebackswing and downswing planes along a particular circular pattern orarc 25, as desired. Likewise, the trainer 10 is operationally configuredto provide instant feedback to a person 5 using the trainer 10 if andwhen a golf club does not travel along an intended swing path within thetraining area 300. Thus, in one implementation the present trainer 10 isoperationally configured to help golfers overcome one or more deviationsfrom their desired swing paths by storing the memory of a desired golfswing as an electrical-chemical code in the person's brain withinneurons, i.e., myelination.

As shown in FIG. 11F, in one suitable embodiment the first verticalbarrier 100 suitably includes a perimeter greater in area than the arc25 of the golf swing. Likewise, the second vertical barrier 200 mayinclude a perimeter greater in area than the arc 25 of the golf swing(see FIG. 11G). With attention to FIGS. 11H and 11I, the inner surfacesof the first and second vertical barriers 100, 200 may also be thoughtof in terms of quadrants A1-D1 and A2-D2 for use alone or in combinationwith the first front position (“I”) and the second rear position (“II”)for establishing or otherwise determining the location of the golf clubin space during the golf swing.

Each individual golfer has his/her own swing plane, typically determinedaccording to his/her body type and the club he/she is swinging at agiven time. For example, when a golfer is at address (see FIG. 12), thelength of a golfer's arms, legs and torso may affect his/her posture,which may affect one's swing plane (see X-1). The length of a golf clubmay also affect the angle X-2 of the golf club shaft 27, i.e., theaddress plane, with the ground. As understood by the skilled artisan, afive foot two inch (5′-2″) tall golfer typically holds a forty (40.0)inch long club flatter than a six foot two inch (6′-2″) tall golfer.Therefore, a shorter golfer will tend to have a flatter on-plane swingthan a taller golfer.

Regardless of body type, the majority of golfers perform the backswingand downswing according to one of the following types of golf swings:(1) the conventional or standard slot swing, (2) the single plane slotswing or (3) the reverse slot swing. In general, the standard slot swingis defined by a downswing (FIG. 13B) having a shaft position along aplane X-4 flatter than the shaft position of the backswing plane X-3(FIG. 13A). In other words, during the backswing the golf club typicallytracks above the address plane and then drops down into a shallower slotin the downswing toward the golf ball 201. The standard single planeslot swing is designed to be completed in a straight line or pendulumtype motion, i.e., the backswing (FIG. 14A) and downswing (FIG. 14B)being performed along the same plane X-5. This type of swing isinitiated from a set up at address whereby the club shaft forms a directline extension with the arms all the way up to the shoulders. Thereverse slot swing is defined by a backswing plane X-6 (FIG. 15A) havinga shaft position along a plane flatter than the shaft position of thedownswing plane X-7 (FIG. 15B). Regardless of the type of swingperformed by a golfer, the plane of his/her backswing and/or downswingtypically shifts somewhat depending on the length of the golf club beingswung, which determines how far apart a golfer is from the golf ball tobe struck—see FIG. 16, which illustrates various swing planes achievedusing different length golf clubs as compared to a base swing plane X-8established using a “5 iron” as the term is understood by the skilledartisan.

Regardless of the type of golf swing performed, it is typicallydesirable to take a golf club straighter back away along the target line26 at the beginning of the backswing to initiate a desired swing plane(see Arrow AA in FIG. 17) as opposed to drawing the golf club inside ofthe target line 26 behind the body resulting in too flat of a swingplane (see Arrow BB in FIG. 18A) and as opposed to rolling the wrists orhands during the backswing, i.e., rolling the club over whereby the clubface rolls open facing the sky (see Arrow BB in FIG. 18B). Drawing ofthe golf club inside the target line 26 may lead to a swing path throughball impact that goes to the right of an intended target.

According to many golf practitioners, it is also not desirable to draw agolf club back outside the target line 26 away from the body, which tooresults in a golfer being off the desired plane typically characterizedby a too upright a swing plane and a swing path through ball impact thatgoes to the left of an intended target. Maintaining a desired plane onthe backswing helps set up a desired plane and club head swing path onthe downswing through impact with the golf ball, which it commonlyreferred to in the sport of golf as an “in-to-in” or“inside-square-inside” swing path (see Arrow CC in FIG. 19). As such,the present trainer 10 is operationally configured to (1) assist indeveloping an in-to-in swing path and (2) notify a user of the trainer10 as to when a particular swing does not follow an in-to-in swing path.According to applicant, an in-to-in swing path is desirable for hittinga golf ball toward the intended target.

Undesired club head directions through ball impact are often referred toas an “out-to-in” or “outside in” swing path (see Arrow DD) and an“in-to-out” or “inside out” swing path (see Arrow EE). For example, onthe downswing if the golf club travels too flat, the butt of the golfclub points outside the target line and the club head will travelin-to-out. If the golf club travels too upright, the butt of the golfclub points inside the target line and the head will travel out-to-in.Typically, an in-to-out swing path can create a pushed or hooked shot,while an out-to-in swing path can create a pulled or sliced shot. If thegolf club is on the desired plane in the downswing (in-to-in swing path)the golf club will travel straight down the target line 26 with theclubface square at impact resulting in a straight golf shot.

The present trainer 10 is effective for developing a desired golf swingby providing first and second vertical barriers 100, 200 of a size andshape effective for intercepting a golf club that does not substantiallytrack along a desired swing path. For example, the second verticalbarrier 200 will intercept a golf club during the backswing if anindividual using the trainer 10 rolls his hands over erroneously asshown in FIGS. 18A and 18B. Thus, in one embodiment the one or morevertical barriers 100, 200 may be oriented as desired (see FIGS. 5-9) tohelp an individual overcome one or more particular deviations in his/herdesired swing path.

The present trainer 10 is also effective for developing and/ormaintaining muscle memory for a desired backswing plane and downswingplane by providing instant feedback to an individual using the trainer10 when the backswing and/or downswing are tilted off from a desiredswing plane and/or when the backswing and/or downswing is marked by ahitch type movement, as the term is understood in the art of golf, in anindividual's swing and/or casting of the club as such term is alsounderstood by the skilled artisan.

As stated above, the trainer 10 involves a first vertical barrier 100and a second vertical barrier 200 set apart from the first verticalbarrier 100 providing a training area 300 there between for anindividual to swing a golf club in a real play type action as performedon a golf course or at a driving range. As also stated above, thedistance between the first and second vertical barriers 100, 200 mayvary according to the size of the individual using the trainer 10, theindividual's type of swing, the type of club or the length of the golfclub being swung when using the trainer 10. Likewise, the first andsecond vertical barriers 100, 200 suitably extend out in front andbehind an individual standing in the training area 300 a distanceeffective to intercept the golf club if the golf club travels along oneor more undesired swing paths. As such, the trainer 10 is effective toprovide feedback to a user as to the position in space of the club headalong X, Y and Z axes when performing the entire golf swing or a portionof a full swing—the three axes of a club head in space combining toaffect the loft, path and distance of a golf ball's flight when hit.Said another way, the trainer 10 is operationally configured to providefeedback to a user as to the position in space of the club head when theclub head is located in either a front position (“I”) or a rear position(“II”) relative to the coronal plane 23 of the person using the trainer10 along the entire arc 25 of the golf swing.

Without limiting the invention, one method of establishing the distancebetween the first and second vertical barriers 100, 200 prior to usingthe trainer 10 may include setting the first and second verticalbarriers 100, 200 apart a distance not less than the length of the golfclub to be swung in the training area 300. From this position, thedistance between the first and second vertical barriers 100, 200 may beadjusted as desired. For example, if an individual plans to practiceswinging a “3 iron” having a length of 99.57 cm (39.25 inches), thefirst and second vertical barriers 100, 200 may be set apart at adistance no less than 99.57 cm (39.25 inches). If too narrow, thedistance between the barriers 100, 200 can be increased just enough toperform an adequate golf swing without contacting either barrier 100,200. Also, the width of the barriers 100, 200 may be adjusted as desiredto ensure club contact with the barriers 100, 200 when a particular useris performing undesired golf swings.

Exemplary widths of a suitable training area 300 may correspond with thestandard men's and women's club lengths as shown in Table 1 below.

TABLE 1 Men's Women's Graphite Steel Graphite Steel Shaft Shaft ShaftShaft cm inches cm inches cm inches cm inches Driver 114.30 45.0 111.7644.0 111.76 44.0 109.22 43.0 3 Wood 109.22 43.0 106.68 42.0 106.68 42.0104.14 41.0 5 Wood 106.68 42.0 104.14 41.0 104.14 41.0 101.60 40.0 2Iron 100.84 39.75 99.57 39.25 98.30 38.75 97.03 38.25 3 Iron 99.57 39.2598.30 38.75 97.03 38.25 95.76 37.75 4 Iron 98.30 38.75 97.03 38.25 95.7637.75 94.49 37.25 5 Iron 97.03 38.25 95.76 37.75 94.49 37.25 93.22 36.756 Iron 95.76 37.75 94.49 37.25 93.22 36.75 91.95 36.25 7 Iron 94.4937.25 93.22 36.75 91.95 36.25 90.68 35.75 8 Iron 93.22 36.75 91.95 36.2590.68 35.75 89.41 35.25 9 Iron 91.95 36.25 90.68 35.75 89.41 35.25 88.1434.75 PW 91.95 36.25 90.68 35.75 89.41 35.25 88.14 34.75 SW 91.95 36.2590.68 35.75 89.41 35.25 88.14 34.75

During use, an individual may stand in the training area 300 withhis/her back to the second vertical barrier 200 with his/her buttocksabout 15.24 cm (6.0 inches) away from the second vertical barrier 200 atan address position (see FIG. 20). If performed adequately, the golfclub should not contact the second vertical barrier 200 when performingthe backswing and should finish at the top with the shaft of the golfclub substantially horizontal to the ground and substantially parallelwith the target line 26 (see FIG. 21). If the backswing is performed ontoo flat a plane as shown in FIG. 18A, the golf club will contact thesecond vertical barrier 200 alerting the user that the plane of his/herbackswing was too flat. If during the backswing the golf club is drawnback outside the target line 26 away from the body, the golf clubsuitably contacts the first vertical barrier 100 giving notice to theuser of the swing path.

If the downswing is performed adequately, i.e., an “in-to-in” or“inside-square-inside” swing path as depicted in FIG. 25, the golf clubshould not contact either the first or second vertical barriers 100, 200as shown in FIG. 22. However, when transitioning from the backswing tothe downswing, if the user spins open the golf club will contact thesecond vertical barrier 200 alerting the user as to the fault in his/herswing. Likewise, if the golf club follows an out-to-in swing path asshown in FIG. 26, the golf club will contact the first vertical barrier100.

The follow through portion of the golf swing following ball contact isanother important phase of the golf swing that can be checked andimproved by using the trainer 10. As understood by persons of ordinaryskill in the game of golf, the follow through is an indicator of whathappened during the golf swing prior to ball contact. If performedadequately, the golfer's weight should shift from the back side to thefront side during the downswing, at ball contact the hips should rotateopen fully extending the right arm with the golf club remaining on plane(see FIG. 23). At finish, a golfer should have a balanced posture withhis/her weight on the front side, head facing the target with the rightshoulder coming under the chin with the shaft of the golf clubcompleting the circle or arc of the swing above the second verticalbarrier 200 (see

FIG. 24). If the golf swing is performed incorrectly, e.g., the hipsover rotate, the golf club may contact the second vertical barrier 200.

The invention will be better understood with reference to the followingnon-limiting examples, which are illustrative only and not intended tolimit the present invention to a particular embodiment.

EXAMPLE 1

In a first non-limiting example, a trainer 10 as shown in FIG. 2 isprovided as an adjustable kit for forming first and second verticalbarriers 100, 200 and a training area 300 there between. The first andsecond vertical barriers 100, 200 may be assembled to one of four sizesvia the various frame members 12 described below.

Quantity Part Length 1 Base frame member 12A about 1.07 m (about 42.0inches) 1 Base frame member 12A about 1.12 m (about 44.0 inches) 1 Baseframe member 12A about 1.23 m (about 48.0 inches) 1 Base frame member12A about 1.37 m (about 54.0 inches) 1 Base frame member 12C about 1.07m (about 42.0 inches) 1 Base frame member 12C about 1.12 m (about 44.0inches) 1 Base frame member 12C about 1.23 m (about 48.0 inches) 1 Baseframe member 12C about 1.37 m (about 54.0 inches) 1 Base frame member12B about 2.13 m (about 7.0 feet) 1 Base frame member 12D about 2.13 m(about 7.0 feet) 1 Base frame member 12I about 2.13 m (about 7.0 feet) 1Base frame member 12J about 2.13 m (about 7.0 feet) 1 Base frame member12E about 1.52 m (about 5.0 feet) 1 Base frame member 12F about 1.52 m(about 5.0 feet) 1 Base frame member 12G about 1.52 m (about 5.0 feet) 1Base frame member 12H about 1.52 m (about 5.0 feet)

The frame members 12 include one inch Schedule 40 plastic polymer pipe.The surfaces of the first and second vertical barriers 100, 200 includenylon mesh netting secured to the frame members 12 via nylon ropematerial.

In operation, the distance between the first and second verticalbarriers 100, 200 of the trainer 10 may be adjusted according to thetype of golf club being used at any given time, e.g., “short irons,”“mid-irons,” “long irons,” “woods” and “drivers” as each of these termsare known to persons of ordinary skill in the game of golf. For example,an individual may use base frame members 12A and 12C having a length ofabout 1.07 m (about 42.0 inches) when swinging a short iron. Anindividual may use base frame members 12A and 12C having a length ofabout 1.12 m (about 44.0 inches) when swinging a mid-iron. An individualmay use base frame members 12A and 12C having a length of about 1.23 m(about 48.0 inches) when swinging a long iron or a wood. An individualmay use base frame members 12A and 12C having a length of about 1.37 m(about 54.0 inches) when swinging a driver.

EXAMPLE 2

In a second non-limiting example, a trainer 10 as described in Example 1is provided with frame members 12A and 12C for use with long irons andwoods having a length of about 1.27 m (about 50.0 inches).

While the invention has been described in detail in terms of specificexamples of carrying out the invention, those skilled in the art willappreciate that there are numerous variations and permutations of theabove described apparatus, system and methods. Thus, the spirit andscope of the invention should be construed broadly as set forth in theappended claims.

I claim:
 1. A golf swing training apparatus comprising a first upright planar barrier and a second upright planar barrier set apart from the first upright planar barrier providing a training area there between for an individual to be located and swing a golf club; the first upright planar barrier and the second upright planar barrier each having surface areas effective to intercept a swinging golf club along the entire arc of an individual golf swing when a golf club swung by the individual travels in space along one or more undesired points on X, Y and Z axes within the training area.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the first upright planar barrier and the second upright planar barrier are adjustable in height and length.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the distance between the first upright planar barrier and the second upright planar barrier is adjustable.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the training area includes a non-destructive surface operationally configured to be contacted by a golf club during a golf swing.
 5. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein the training area surface is operationally configured to receive a removable sand enclosure effective for an individual to practice sand type golf shots therein.
 6. The apparatus of claim 1 further including a see through barrier material disposed across the first upright planar barrier and a see through barrier material disposed across the second upright planar barrier.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the first upright planar barrier and the second upright planar barrier are comprised of a total of twenty upright members, sixteen horizontal members and couplings there between interconnecting the upright and horizontal members.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the minimum distance between the first upright planar barrier and the second upright planar barrier is determined according to the length of the golf club to be swung in the training area.
 9. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein the minimum distance between the first upright planar barrier and the second upright planar barrier is determined according to the length of the golf club to be swung in the training area.
 10. A golf swing training apparatus comprising a first upright barrier and a second upright barrier defined by planes substantially parallel to a coronal plane of an individual using the apparatus, wherein the second vertical barrier is set apart from the first vertical barrier providing a training area there between for an individual to be positioned when swinging a golf club; with the individual having a desired golf swing arc directed between out in the front and back behind the individual's coronal plane unhindered by the first and second upright barriers, the first and second upright barriers being operationally configured to intercept a golf club swung along an undesired golf swing arc at one or more points out in front and behind the coronal plane of the individual performing the golf swing.
 11. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein the second upright barrier is located behind an individual using the apparatus and has a height at least about equal to the height of the individual and wherein the first upright barrier is located in front of the individual using the apparatus and has a height at least about equal to the height of the waistline of the individual.
 12. A golf swing practice method including: providing a golf swing training apparatus comprising (a) a first vertical barrier having a planar surface; (b) a second vertical barrier having a planar surface set apart from the first vertical barrier; and (c) a base for supporting the first and second vertical barriers in upright positions, the first and second vertical barriers and the base providing a defined training area for an individual to be located to swing a golf club; and with an individual positioned in the training area and oriented so that the planar surfaces of the first and second vertical barriers are parallel with a coronal plane of the individual, the individual swinging a golf club according to his/her natural golf swing mechanics, whereby contact of the golf club with either of the first and second vertical barriers when performing the golf swing informs the individual of an undesired swing path.
 13. The method of claim 12 wherein the minimum distance between the first vertical barrier and the second vertical barrier is determined according to the length of the golf club to be swung in the training area. 